Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been charged with sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor in the Dominican Republic, reports ESPN.
Franco last played for the Rays on August 12, 2023. He’s been on administrative leave since then, which was extended to July 14 to allow the legal process to unfold. While on leave, he remains off the roster but continues to be paid under his 11-year, $182 million contract. Major League Baseball can suspend him without pay after the legal process concludes.
Allegations arose last August about Franco’s relationship with a 14-year-old girl. Prosecutors say he gave her mother cash and a car in exchange for consent .
He was arrested in early January and released after paying around $34,000 as a conditional waiver. Prosecutors accuse Franco of taking the minor from her home in Puerto Plata in December 2022 and maintaining a four-month relationship with her with her mother’s consent.
Details of Allegations:
In September 2023, authorities raided the girl’s mother’s home and seized significant amounts of money: 800,000 Dominican pesos ($13,700) and $68,500 hidden behind a frame. They also found a bank guarantee certificate worth 2.1 million Dominican pesos ($36,000), allegedly delivered by Franco for “commercial and sexual exploitation” of the girl.
Additionally, they confiscated a Suzuki Swift valued at $26,600. Authorities noted that just days before purchasing this car, the teenager’s mother had only about $821 in her bank account.
Fans might think this news is shocking and upsetting given Franco’s rising career .
Franco made his first All-Star team last season and was one of MLB’s promising stars before these allegations surfaced along with formal charges now being pressed against him. MLB has the authority to discipline him regardless of what happens legally in the Dominican Republic.
What do you think about this situation?
